Minnesota Valley Testing
Laboratories, Inc.

Providing Analytical Excellence Since 1951

Soybean Cyst Nematode Screening

NEMAGENE™ – A New Era in Soybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) Testing

MVTL is proud to announce the launch of NEMAGENE™, a novel molecular test for soybean cyst nematode (SCN) that was developed in conjunction with Freyr Diagnostics, to offer a modern approach to SCN testing utilizing PCR technology.

This spring of 2026, MVTL becomes the first laboratory in the world to offer this innovative test for SCN egg counts. The results obtained with NEMAGENE™ were consistent with results of traditional microscope SCN egg counts conducted by the Tylka Nematology Lab at Iowa State University using shared soil samples.

Learn more about NEMAGENE™’s independent validation.

Use Your Existing Soil Nutrient Samples – No Extras Needed

NEMAGENE™ represents a major advancement in SCN detection and management. Unlike traditional microscope-based methods, this test can be seamlessly added to your standard soil fertility testing with no additional samples required. That means less hassle, lower costs, and a more streamlined workflow.

By integrating NEMAGENE™ into routine sampling, you can increase the number of samples across your fields and gain a clearer picture of SCN variability. More data points allow for better tracking of population changes over time and more informed management decisions. Without representative measurement, SCN management becomes guesswork.

Key Advantages Over Traditional SCN Testing Methods

No Extra Sampling​

The SCN test is taken from your soil nutrient sample so no extra sampling or extra steps are required.

Faster Results

PCR-based analysis significantly shortens turnaround time, enabling faster, data-driven decisions.

Affordable Testing

Streamlined processing cuts the price in half, making more samples per field practical. More samples = more insights.

Higher Resolution Data

Increased sampling density provides more precise, field-level insights into SCN variability.

Improved Accuracy

Consistent DNA-based measurements increase the accuracy of results.

Better Monitoring

Quantify variability, monitor population shifts, and track management performance across seasons.

High-Throughput Testing with Soil Fertility Turnaround Times

NEMAGENE™ is built for high-throughput processing, allowing a greater number of samples to be analyzed efficiently without sacrificing accuracy. By leveraging advanced molecular technology, the test integrates seamlessly into existing laboratory workflows, enabling results to be delivered within the same reliable turnaround time as standard soil fertility testing.

This means you can expand your sampling density and gain deeper insight into SCN populations across your fields without delays or disruptions to your normal testing schedule.

Step into the future of SCN Testing with NEMAGENE™

From Sample to Results – SCN Testing Made Easy

  1. Sample Once – SCN testing with NEMAGENE™ uses the same sample collected for your soil nutrient analysis – no additional sampling required.
  2. Request SCN Testing – Simply include “SCN” on your submittal form to request SCN testing.
  1. Result Delivery – SCN results are delivered alongside your soil nutrient results, typically within 2 business days.
  1. Familiar Metrics – SCN levels are reported eggs/100 cc soil, using the same metric as the traditional method.

Are you looking for corn or other nematode testing? Contact us!

Add a SCN Test to Your Soil Submittal Sheet Today!

Frequently Asked Questions

No. SCN testing is performed using the same sample collected for your soil nutrient analysis. There is no need for additional sampling, making it easy to incorporate SCN testing into your existing workflow.

SCN results are delivered alongside your soil nutrient results, typically within 2 business days. This allows you to make timely decisions without delaying recommendations to your customers.

Simply indicate “SCN” on your submittal form when sending in your soil nutrient samples. Our team will take care of the rest!

The results obtained with NEMAGENE™ were consistent with results of traditional microscope SCN egg counts conducted by the Tylka Nematology Lab at Iowa State University using shared soil samples. By using PCR-based analysis, it provides the same trusted information through a faster and more efficient process.

Soybean cyst nematodes are the #1 pathogen of soybeans related to yield loss in North America. With faster turnaround and no additional sampling required, it becomes practical to increase SCN sampling density, monitor population changes over time, and evaluate the impact of management practices.

SCN results are reported as egg counts per 100 cc soil, using the same standard metric you are familiar with.

Yes. Our workflow is designed to efficiently process high sample volumes, allowing us to maintain consistent turnaround times even during peak soil sampling season.

In addition to soybean cyst nematode, we offer testing for other agronomically significant nematodes such as corn nematodes. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs and available testing options.

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